PA Gov. Signs Bill to Honor Fallen Motorcyclist

Gov. Edward G. Rendell Tuesday signed into law a bill honoring fallen Adams County police Sgt. Michael C. Weigand, who was killed in a motorcycle accident in 2008 while escorting a benefit ride.

Gov. Rendell says: "I sign this bill today honoring Sgt. Weigand for his commitment to public safety, and in dedication to his family who advocated for stronger protections for first responders. I hope that this measure will provide some relief to Sgt. Weigand’s family and friends, and that it will serve as a reminder to all motorists to drive safely."

House Bill 2246 increases penalties for motorists who recklessly or with gross negligence cause an accident resulting in the death of an emergency responder who is acting in an official capacity.

The man killed in the motorcycle wreck was Weigand, 25, an officer with the Eastern Adams Regional Police Department and the Latimore Township Police Department.